Heights

Height is the measure of a vertical extent, from the base to the top of an object. In geometry, the height (or altitude) of a triangle is the perpendicular distance from a vertex to the opposite side. More generally, height describes how tall something is, such as a person, a building, or a landscape feature.

Units and measurement methods vary by field. In metric units, height is expressed in meters and centimeters; in the imperial system, feet and inches are common. Direct measurement uses rulers, stadiometers, or laser devices. For larger scales, height or elevation above mean sea level is derived from geodetic models, photogrammetry, or remote sensing. Aviation uses altitude to denote height above a reference level in airspace.

Applications and implications of height span everyday life and science. Height affects ergonomic design, safety standards, and architectural planning, as well as athletic performance and health assessments. In mathematics and physics, height appears in formulas for area, volume, and kinematics. In surveying and cartography, height data contribute to topographic models, flood risk assessments, and urban planning.

Terminology can vary by field. Height is a general vertical measure; elevation usually refers to height relative to sea level, and altitude commonly denotes height within an atmosphere or flight level. Posture, time of day, hydration, and instrument accuracy can affect measured height. See also elevation and altitude for related concepts.